I think a thread on atheism/religion would be a great idea, as long as people can keep their cool. That isn't always easy to do, usually the mudslinging starts pretty quickly.

I agree with Jackjo's comments that men are less likely than women to be believers in a God. Like Jackjo, I think, from personal experience, one of the primary barriers to belief in God is pride and control. Men do not want to give up the idea that they are completely independent, self-made men, nor do they want to lose the ability to do whatever, whenever. This is true for both sexes, but men especially.

I am a Christian and have been for about 8 years. I've spent most of my life as an Atheist. My parents still are, and they think I am nuts. I wasn't brainwashed, encouraged, or influenced toward Christianity in any way. Matter of fact, I said most of the same things Atheists say about God.

As far as charity goes - I keep my work and amount of donations to myself. I don't give or work out of guilt, or the desire to store up treasures in Heaven, I do things because I feel God's love in my life every day. I know I don't deserve that love. I want other people, believers or not, to feel loved, even if/when they don't deserve it. I don't really feel good about myself when I am done giving or working for a charity. I don't really feel much difference in myself at all, just still loved, thankful, and humbled.

I do believe that you can store up "treasures" in Heaven, but I have no idea what that means. Nor do I care. My treasure will be an eternity in Heaven with my Creator. As the good book says, "In Him you are complete!"